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Error Code Reference

KitchenAid Dishwasher Error Code UO / FAE1

This error indicates a flood detection or water level issue in your KitchenAid dishwasher, meaning the appliance has sensed excessive water accumulation in the tub or a failure in the water inlet valve. The dishwasher will halt its cycle and prevent operation until the issue is resolved.

Technical Advisory
Home › Error Codes › KitchenAid Dishwasher Error Code UO / FAE1

Signs

What you may observe

• Dishwasher stops mid-cycle and displays UO or FAE1 error code • Water pooling or standing water visible at the bottom of the dishwasher tub • Dishwasher refuses to start or complete a wash cycle • Flood sensor light or alarm may activate • Water may be leaking onto the kitchen floor near the dishwasher • Unusual buzzing or clicking sounds coming from the appliance • Control panel buttons become unresponsive after error appears

Possible Causes

Root causes behind this error

• Clogged or blocked drain hose preventing proper water drainage • Kinked or improperly positioned drain hose restricting water flow • Debris or food particles blocking the internal drain pump or filter • Faulty water inlet valve failing to shut off properly • Malfunctioning float switch or float assembly stuck in raised position • Defective flood sensor or water level sensor providing false readings • Cracked or damaged tub allowing water to escape into the base pan • Improper installation of drain hose above sink drain line height • Failed or leaking door gasket seal allowing water to escape • Clogged air vent or pressure tube preventing proper water level detection

Safety Checks You Can Do

Steps you can try at home safely

• Check your home's circuit breaker panel and ensure the dishwasher breaker is in the ON position; if tripped, switch it OFF then back ON • Verify the dishwasher door is completely closed and the latch engages fully with an audible click • Locate the water shut-off valve under your sink and confirm it is fully open (turn counterclockwise) • Inspect the drain hose at the back of the dishwasher for kinks, bends, or crimps and straighten any problem areas • Follow the drain hose to where it connects to your sink drain and check for visible clogs or blockages • Remove and clean the dishwasher's lower basket to access the filter screen at the bottom of the tub • Clean the filter screen thoroughly by rinsing it under running water and removing any food, debris, or mineral buildup • Verify you are using only true dishwasher detergent (not hand soap) and check that detergent quantity is appropriate for your water hardness • Review your dishwasher's control panel settings and ensure no cycle is selected that would prevent normal operation • Perform a complete reset by turning OFF the circuit breaker serving your dishwasher for exactly 60 seconds, then turn the breaker back ON • Wait 5 minutes after reset for the appliance to fully reboot before attempting to run a new cycle • Run a test cycle with an empty tub to see if the error code reappears
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